Fulham boss namechecks Iwobi as he explains why super-sub Harry Wilson has yet to crack starting XI

Fulham boss Marco Silva has revealed the reasoning behind his decision to favor Alex Iwobi over in-form Harry Wilson.

The Cottagers secured back-to-back wins in London derbies with a 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday.

Iwobi provided an assist in the win, continuing his impressive form this season. The Nigerian international made history on September 21, 2024, by becoming Nigeria's all-time assist provider in Premier League history.

Fulham's win over Crystal Palace could have been more comfortable, but Silva was satisfied with the outcome. 

Wilson came off the bench to seal the win with a goal, his third in two Premier League games after entering as a substitute. 

Speaking through the club's official website, Silva acknowledged Wilson's exceptional form but emphasized Iwobi's consistency and leadership. 

The 47-year-old further clarified that Wilson's desire to start is understood, but the decision is about maintaining form and team balance.

"He's doing the right things. He's not doing anything wrong to not start. He's competing against very good players, too. Alex, for example, is being one of the best players so far this season, if not the best. From the first day of pre-season, he's been so, so brilliant," Silva explained. 

"Adama had a fantastic start of the season, too. Right now, he is on the bench because Reiss Nelson is doing so well. Great competition between them – it's great for me. Good headache, but great for me and for the team as well.

"I'm here to make decisions, but he's done nothing wrong to not play. It's just because I'm deciding for the others, and the others are doing a very good season as well."

The connection between Wilson and Iwobi was crucial for the Cottagers in the game, and the Portuguese gaffer just couldn't hide his praise for Wilson's sharpness and partnership with Iwobi.

"It was a great week for him. Last Monday, he decided the game for us. This afternoon again, one of the first times he touched the ball, he scored. 

"A great move. His sharpness when he makes this type of move is really good, the capacity that he has to arrive in those areas is really good, too.

"That connection that he's creating with Alex – it's not the first time that we created a chance like that, and he did it again, and I'm really pleased for him," Silva added.

It's back to the drawing board for Fulham as they will look to continue their momentum when they host Wolverhampton Wanderers after this month's international break.

Iwobi's focus will momentarily shift to Nigeria's upcoming games against Benin Republic and Rwanda, as he was chosen by interim manager Austin Eguavoen in his 23-man squad to prosecute the pair of games that may qualify the Super Eagles for next year's AFCON.

Ejim Kaycee

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